What First Aid Supplies Should You Have in Your Workplace?

Whether you are an employee or a business owner, emergencies in the workplace can happen at any moment and having the right first aid supplies, in particular for bleeding control, on hand can make a life-saving difference. Consider this: In 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 5,190 workplace fatalities, an 8.9% increase from 2020 in the US, emphasizing the crucial need for well-equipped first aid kits in every workplace.

So you have a first aid kit, but can the contents control a catastrophic bleed? Let's review the importance of having comprehensive first aid supplies in your workplace.

The Vital Role of First Aid Supplies

Rapid Response Saves Lives:

Time is of the essence when it comes to emergencies. Having immediate access to first aid supplies can mean the difference between life and death, especially in critical situations like severe bleeding or cardiac arrest.

• According to the American Heart Association, for every minute that passes without CPR and defibrillation in the case of sudden cardiac arrest, the chances of survival decrease by 7-10%.
• The initial moments in a medical emergency are often referred to as the "platinum ten minutes," where if you act within this timeframe there is a higher chance to save a life. Take a look at this in more detail here.

Preventing Minor Injuries from Escalating

Workplace injuries aren't always catastrophic; they can range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious incidents such as a severe bleed. Quick and efficient first aid can prevent minor injuries from developing into major health issues, reducing the overall impact on productivity and employee well-being.

Legal Compliance and Employee Well-being

or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid. Adequate first aid supplies shall be readily available."

“If the employer has persons who are trained in first aid, then adequate first aid supplies must be readily available for use. Therefore, employers are required to provide first aid supplies that are most appropriate to respond to incidents at their workplaces.”

It should not only be an obligation but a priority to provide your workplace with the appropriate supplies as well as ensuring that all employees feel safe. This in turn will ensure a positive work environment as well as reducing staff retention down to workplace injuries.

Essential First Aid Supplies for Every Workplace:

Trauma Dressings and Tourniquets:

Addressing catastrophic bleeding is crucial. Trauma dressings and tourniquets are essential for controlling severe bleeding until professional help arrives.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED):

Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death, and having an AED on-site significantly improves the chances of survival. Ensure your workplace is equipped with this life-saving device.

Basic Wound Care Supplies:

A well-stocked first aid kit should include bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, and adhesive tape for treating cuts, scrapes, and other minor injuries.

Bleeding Control Supplies:

Controlling a severe bleed cannot be underestimated; a great all-in-one solution for your workplace is the bleeding control stations. These handy cases can be wall-mounted for easy point-of-injury access, as well as refillable to ensure you are always prepared for aiding a severe bleed.

Military and emergency medics agree with the inclusion of bleeding control equipment in public spaces to be equally valid as Defibrillators and fire extinguishers. Individually the kits in the stations contain:

1 Instructions For Use Card

2 Pairs of Nitrile Medical Gloves

1 Compression Bandage (6”)

2 Z-Fold Gauze

1 Pair of Piranha Trauma Shears (5.5”)

1 Windlass Tourniquet

1 Black Permanent Marker

1 Xtricate Lyte disposable emergency stretcher.

You can purchase yours here directly from Amazon.

Conclusion

Investing in comprehensive first aid supplies is not just a legal requirement; it's a commitment to the well-being of your employees. By ensuring that your workplace is equipped to handle emergencies, you not only increase the chances of survival in critical situations but also ensure a safe work environment for all. Remember, a well-prepared workplace is a resilient one, ready to face any challenge that comes its way.

Our Resources

Understanding the 4 D’s of bleeding control

Watch educational first aid tips

If you would like to learn more about becoming medically prepared or install bleeding control stations in your workplace, please get in touch and follow us on our social media to stay up to date.